Financial Aid
So many times I have seen students after they have been attending an institution still not understand the terms of thier financial aid loans and interest rates. Financial responsibilty in most cases is something that young adults are not prepared for when they are at the collegiate level.
Asha,You are so correct. The misconception for many students is that Financial Aid is made up of only grants.
Doria,
It really depends upon your particular school and how it is organized. Small schools may not have the staffing to have two separate departments. The important reminder to all is to only speak to what you are trained. If you veer off the path, you risk providing inaccurate information.
Patty Aronoff
Being in admissions for several years, I have been told several different scenarios on what you are suppose to mention to a prospective student regarding financial aid. As an admission representative how much information are you suppose to give out regarding the process without going out of compliance with the rules and regulations?
Inga,
Agreed! They are the subject matter experts and can answer questions geared to the individual needs of the student.
Patty Aronoff
paula,
The representatives in FA are the subject matter experts and can provide the guidance students need in financing their education.
Patty Aronoff
Financial Aid is very important when discussing with a prospective student. most of the times in my institution we tell our prospective students to sit with FA so they can get a better understanding of it
I think this is the best way to make sure that the student understands the financial aid process. As admissions representatives, we can only provide the basic financial aid information. Our trained financial aid advisors at our campus are always very willing to come in and assist prospective students with their financial aid questions.
Jonathan,
Admissions certainly should discuss tuition and all costs associated with the school. Additional costs as exam fees, lab supplies, etc. should be fully explained.
Patty Aronoff
What i strive to do before a student goes over to Financial Aide is to go over all the cost associated with that particular program. If they have specific questions in terms of what they will qualify for i refer them to financial aide. Over the years with training i believe Financial Aide has been better prepared to make sure the student understands what thier loans and interest will be and if they have any questions they are there to answer them as needed accurately.
ISMARY,
It is best practice to have financial aid discussed with a financial aid officer. They are the subject matter experts and lessen the risk of misleading students with inaccurate information.
Patty Aronoff
heather,
Financial responsibility is part of the student experience and development of professionalism. Students are expected to assume their responsibility and make payments on time, not going into default.
Patty Aronoff
Often times when the potential students are having difficulty understanding FA, we call in for a financial aid advisor to assist. It works very well so far.
I think this goes both ways. Sometimes the students are fresh out of high school so they have no idea how to take financial responsibility however, those who are adults in most case's have a tough time too. It is best for the FA coordnator to explain in detail to the student the process, payments and fees so there is not a question later regarding payment plans ect.
Marlene,
As admission representatives, we need to know an o review of financial aid. However, the financial aid process is very complex, changing every day. We should leave the detailed conversations to the Financial Aid experts.
Patty Aronoff
Julie,
Many look only for a free ride. Students who invest in themselves and are financially responsible have a different perspective every day.
Patty Aronoff
Financial aid should be explained in detail so that the student completely understands the process.
I come across a lot of students who feel that they can not go to school without any grant money. Some students do not want the responsibility of paying back any student loans.
Maria,
The s tridents need to be fully aware of their financial aid and their responsibility in repayment.
Patty Aronoff
Financial Aid is an important part of every discussion with a prospective student.
